Phoenix Priest Speaks Hard Truths on Catholic Voting and Abortion

In this homily from Oct. 2, Father John Lankeit, the rector of Saints Simon & Jude Cathedral in Phoenix, Arizona, delivered a strong message to voters on why the issue of abortion supersedes all others in political consideration.

He doesn’t name a party or a candidate, but he emphasizes that, if you are so ignorant of party/candidate platforms and policies that you can’t tell what and whom he’s talking about, you may wish to consider educating yourself or abstaining from voting.

A native of the Adirondacks and Saratoga Springs in northern New York State, journalist and fiction writer Kate O'Hare now lives in Los Angeles, where she's on a neverending quest to find a parish in the L.A. Archdiocese with orthodox preaching, excellent traditional music and parking.

I am a parish member where he is rector and let me tell you that homily live moved me to tears. It was especially sad because some parishioners did walk out. It broke my heart to see a a mother and father walk out with their toddler in tow. All I can do is pray for them. Fr. Lankeit and Bishop Olmsted are truly holy men. I am blessed beyond what I deserve to be able to have Fr. Lankeit as a friend and shepherd.

I WILL PRAY FOR THAT FAMILY.IT IS VERY SAD THAT CATHOLICS REFUSE TO HEAR THE TRUTH OF OUR FAITH. I PRAY THAT MY PARRISH PRIEST AT SAINT PETERS CATHEDRAL IN SCRANTON PA WILL HAVE THE COURAGE TO SPEAK OUT LIKE FR JOHN LANKEIT DID.GOD BLESS HIM.

Now, I don’t know that this is true of the family you saw leave your church, but I was thinking that if I were there with my young children, I would leave the area until the priest was done speaking. My children are very young, and I haven’t talked with them about abortion yet. They’re old enough to understand his words about a mother killing a child, but not old enough, in my opinion, to hear about the tragedy of abortion. I wanted to share this with you because it is possible that a parent could completely agree with everything this priest was saying but also decide to preserve their child’s innocence until he/she is older.

Pablo, I am truly horrified that some parishioners walked out! Our pastor gave a moving sermon as well. His basic premise was that we know that one candidate, if elected, will sail into the White House on a flood of blood from supporting abortions, whereas the other candidate has promised to curtail them. He said, (I am paraphrasing) wasn’t a vote for that candidate worth it if only one child’s life was saved?
He also EMPHASIZED that each of us must strive to sin less and grow in virtue to change our immoral culture.
I suggest you write an appreciative note to your pastor, esp as some folks are obviously Clinton supporters!

Gary Johnson would allow states the power to completely outlaw abortion in their state. It’s is unrealistic to say that either Trump or Hillary would outlaw abortion on a federal level, they will not. Gary Johnson is a path to outlawing abortion, state by state.

Excuse me, but that is incorrect. Both Pence and Trump have said abortion would be overturned federally and remanded to state sovereignty. Johnson has no chance of winning though he may feel the same. Don’t put words in Trump’s mouth. I have been praying and praying. What I really think I got from the Lord is: He is watching. Two people stand before us with opposite views. If the majority of people rebel when they have been given this choice to change direction, I think He will remove hedges of protection. Combine that with Clinton’s campaign platform, it will be extremely harsh for us. How about another natural disaster or war? Do not be deceived but think outside yourself and stand for the innocent and unprotected-for God!

Most Catholics would support the separation of church and state. Although Fr. Lanket does not mention party or candidate, he says if the congregation does not know of whom he speaks, they should not cast their vote. That is crossing the line.

MorganD — I disgree; agree with you, Jean. Just voting the way you have always “pulled the lever” just won’t do it these days. That’s how we have gotten to the mess we are in now. Pray, study, then vote. If you aren’t willing to do those two things first, I pray that you will stay home on Nov 8. God Bless this country.

Hopefully, Morgand, the “most” Catholics of whom you speak really are smart and will not fall for the cafeteria Catholicism you appear to have embraced. May God have mercy and help you to see and understand His Truth.

It is thinking like this that causes such votes to be “wasted.” I’m going to vote for the candidate I want to win every time. If more people voted that way, we wouldn’t be stuck with two horrible candidates for president. I would argue that the “wasted vote” mentality is actually worsening the situation. If a third party (and maybe a fourth) could get traction, maybe there would finally be candidates that Catholics can stand behind on the vast majority of issues.

I have a degree in Political Science and History. Old School. Please show me in the Constitution where that is written in the words you and other revisionist history buffs keep repeating. The First Amendment specifically says that Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion (Why? – Because the UK – to this day – has a State run religion….the Anglican Church). Furthermore, the First Amendment states….or, prohibiting the free exercise thereof – meaning that the government cannot interfere in any way, shape, or form with the institution of any denomination whatsoever. This never was, nor can it be interpreted to mean that the Government and the Church(s)/Denominations can’t partnership in matters that affect the over all well being of the nation, or the respective communities and it doesn’t mean that they can’t fund and/or support or advocate for each others causes. Indeed, the government under bush, has a Faith based initiative to do just that and nearly every community across America does the same thing. This idea that somehow there is a wall of separation between the government and the Church is false. that is not what the First Amendment says, or intended. Do some real research and go to the Federalist Papers, as well as to the Library of Congress Archives and look up the topic and research also, the Messages and Papers of the President, specifically Thomas Jefferson’s letter’s on the subject to John Jay and John Marshall. Don’t place obstacles in your path. The clergy has every right to speak out about every issue that faces us yesterday, today and tomorrow. People who are offended or pretend to be overly righteous need to check their baggage at the door.

African American churches have advocated voting for Democrat candidates by name for decades, especially Obama. Why was there no uproar then, but there is when Catholic priests walk up to the line, but don’t cross it?

There is nothing in the Constitution or the Bill of rights about separation of church and state. A judge made that comment and the Democrates have used that lie for years. Our Constitution was birthed and based on Christian faith values. We are the only nation in the world that has it. That is why we are the light of the world. However we are now turning away from those faith values and our country is in jeopardy. If we continue down this path God will turn away from us. Pray first and ask for wisdom, know what the candidate stands for and please vote. 25 million Christians did NOT vote in the last election. We need to stand up for God and God will show up!

I’m a Christian and I voted for Obama, so I take issue with this claim. Did you know that under Obama’s administration, there were fewer abortions than during any other administration? Have you considered that perhaps there is a better way to go about preserving life and reducing the number of abortions than by attempting to outlaw abortions as a rule (as those in the Republican Party have placed all their efforts and attentions)? Consider maybe there are other policies (education, healthcare, etc) that are better supported by the Democratic Party that actually do more to reduce the number of abortions than what the Republican Party has been trying to do?

Amendment I. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

The first amendment says, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;—“.
Nothing in the homily crosses the line. He states the position of an un-named candidate and party and the church’s, (and God;s) position. If you want to be a member of the Catholic ,and catholic, church, he is reminding you of your duty. That’s HIS duty.

Thank you and God bless you Fr. Lanket for informing Catholics that abortion is murder and a grave sin. If you vote for a candidate who belives abortion is right, than you are helping that candidate murder the unborn babies. Their blood is on your hands just as much as on that candidates hands!!! Thank you Lord for the courage of this wonderful Priest!! Wish he was in our city!!!

What a Homily. It was like God Himself was giving it. God bless Father Lankiet, from saints. Simon & Jude Cathedral in Phoenix, Az gave on voting for the right person for president. He did not mention any name but got to the point. Thank you Father. Lankiet. God bless you I am sure My vote will be the Right vote. Cecilia Salvato. From Atlanta, Georgia

The people that walked out, do not want to hear the word of God or follow it. And give themselves credit for going to church on Sundays. They can deceive other people but not their Lord and Savior. He knows.

You are so correct Elida. The truth will set you free!
Just as in John 6:66, many of Jesus’ disciples left Him because they said it was a hard teaching. He meant what He said, and He didnt go chasing after them.
As a matter of fact He then asked His 12 do you want to leave too?
Simon Peter answered,“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

We now know that Hillary’s chief campaign managers have great disdain for Catholics. The Wikileaks have them on tape talking about Catholics and Evangelicals in very disparaging and ugly way…this from Podesta a Catholic , a top manager in the Clinton campaign and he has disdain for Catholics according to his own words.
How can anyone of us ever vote for a Democrat especially Hillary in this very important elections which we are fighting for our religious liberty…!

Father, thank you for your courage and witness to not just our Catholic faith but to Jesus Christ, God Almighty. These were very hard words to hear but very much needed for everyone in and out of Church to heed. It is our responsibility as Catholics to put on our armor as Christians (given to us through the Sacrament of Conformation through the Holy Spirit), to defend our Faith. We all need to re-examine not only our Faith but our hearts in such grave matters as abortion.

Again, I thank God for you and your witness to the Word of God, “Thou shall not kill.”

Father, thank you for your courage and strength to share the words of your Bishop with not only your Parish but all Catholics and Christians. These were very harsh words to hear but very much needed for all of us to heed. It is our responsibility as Catholics to put on our Armor ( which was given to us through the Sacrament of Conformation), through the Holy Ghost to defend our Faith.

Again, I thank God for you and your witness to the Eternal Word of God, “Thou shall not kill.”

I will never understand why all Catholic priests are not required to take an active stance on abortion. It should not be up to the individual priest or his bravery. Doctors and nurses should get to make a stance on abortion. Catholic priests should be required to make an active stance. We got our local Planned Parenthood office closed without any participation or announcements from our priest. There’s no middle ground you’re either for or against. Also please explain to me why other churches don’t take an active stance against abortion. God bless

Thanks for this wisdom which is so lacking in our culture. Our priests are are spiritual leaders. Follow them, listen to them. They made a vow for the sanctification of our souls. Respect them, for they are the arm of God.

There is a law in the U.S.A, that no priest or clergy is supposed to preach Politics or endorse any candidate in their church. If they do, they can lose their tax exempt status! How is this priest getting away with this?

Yes Carol, you are right. Although it is an IRS ruling that says a religious organization cannot tout certain political candidates. This priests hate speech also borders on wanting to lose their 501(c) ruling.

Because abortion is child sacrifice, and a horrible offence against God. It is not a political issue. It is the duty of the priest to inform the congregation of the consequences of legal abortion. In the words of St. Mother Theresa “If they dont stop killing unborn innocent babies, how will they ever stop killing each other”. Abortion – one dead, one wounded. We as a society are deceiving ourselves believing abortion solves a problem. So many wounded.

…so we are cowards for not standing up for human life because we’re angry you refuse to stand up for child molestation rampant in your clergy? You can’t have it both ways, buddy. I can only be a coward if you are as well. You cannot be pro-life if you do not stand up for the children that have been and continue to be molested while sitting idly by. You are a coward, sir. And your words are irresponsible. Shame on you. Shame on the bishop you represent.

Since I am awaiting for my REPLY to be reviewed or awaiting moderation I will say that I have heard words like this from the pulpit (as you call it) and I have walked out. Silence is better than these words of horror. I wonder if there is enough silence in the world for the Word to be heard. Listen. Be still and listen to your own heart which is the heart of God. You are made in God’s image, not in the image of sin and fear.

“For those who believe (in God & in ALL that the Catholic Church teaches) no words are necessary. For those who do not believe no words suffice.” We were very grateful to God for this courageous priest who spoke up for, defended, & carried out the mission entrusted to all of us from God Himself. Thank you Father for your sermon. Texas prays for you.

I wish this Priest would take his own advise and educate himself on Party/candidate platforms and policies. With all due respect but he is just full of it on his interpretation of “facts”.
He talks about abortion as if one size fits all case scenario and I think it’s just ridiculous. BTW I don’t believe in abortion either but this pro-life thing is more of a pro-birth thing when different case scenarios can’t be just chalked to the one solution fits all when life threat health issues are not being taken into account. I don’t think this priest can understand it, his sole view is totally based on theology reasoning. I wish those “brave ” priest were as fierce defenders of child molestation victims from their own brethren as they are for fetuses.

I guess the only thing I can do is pray for your soul, Father. You preach sin, horror and your words are carefully chosen to manipulate and encourage fear. The reality is that our God is a loving God. Our God embraces all and understands our human condition because we are made in God’s image. It is also interesting that I always hear these outspoken words on abortion from MEN, who cannot get pregnant, who can walk away after impregnating a woman without being accused of any fault. Going further than that, you as an ordained man, who has vowed celibacy, who has chosen not to marry, whether a man or woman, has chosen to point an accusatory finger at the female gender. Making a decision to refuse communion to any baptized Catholic is a sin because you are making a public judgement. You are not embracing the Gospel message and are ignoring the Gospel stories where Jesus tells us over and over not to judge and not to cast stones. So I pray for your soul Father and for the soul of your Bishop. You are not the first to cast these stones, but are part of a larger group who refuse the Gospel message by not clearing your own soul, but rather casting judgement on others, on the baptized Catholic/Christians, on your own parishioners. If one does not vote for Hillary Clinton, I suppose you are suggesting that Catholics not vote because the alternative is to vote for a man, Donald Trump, who uses the F word in a public forum, who degrades women by referring to there genitals as “pussy” apparently having no respect for the act of pro-creation, who does not embrace any religion or spiritual path, who preaches that he will bomb the hell out of other persons living on this planet, who will certainly put our country in danger if he is elected president, if he has not done so already. Finally, he degrades the disability community and does not respect the institution of marriage. This is the alternative candidate. But, of course, he is a man…………….

Shame on you American Catholic Church for advising on Politics. Separation of Church and State -gives the church a tax exempt law. The Catholic Church should not be advising on Politics, because in reality it isn’t wholly represented in either candidate.

If you think the only Christian value at stake in the 2016 election is the pro-life agenda (like Bush), then you are missing the big picture of our faith. It is about love and understanding.

Only the American Catholic Church thinks if a candidate claims he’s Pro-Life then he’s the Christian Voice. I hardly doubt Trump will represent my Christian values; hating women, minorities, and Muslims. Jesus wouldn’t do this. I want a candidate that will provide for those in need, not judge, treat others like their brother…

And The Pope spoke out against only Trump -says his words are not Christian, and here you are promoting him. The Catholic Church in America is getting its hands dirty in politics today. Step back.

First off, let me say that as a Catholic, I believe abortion is a terrible sin and should be illegal. However, in 2004 George W. Bush had a Republican Congress and campaigned heavily on moral issues (such as gay marriage & abortion). That Congress did nothing to overturn abortion on a federal level (to be fair, Congress did pass a partial birth abortion ban in 2003). However, my question is, did anyone hold their Republican candidates’ feet to the fire and demand a federal law banning abortion?

If we are supposed to vote on essentially one issue by itself, for a candidate who has said repeatedly in the past that he himself is pro-choice, and who boldly violates many other tenants of Catholicism in his personal life, then what is our plan to hold our Republican congress and president responsible? There is absolutely no reason they cannot pass a complete federal ban on abortion. By the time the challenge gets to the Supreme Court, the conservative replacement for Scalia will be on the bench.

I will not accept the idea that a complete ban is impossible. If we are supposed to vote on one issue alone as Catholics, then we certainly better demand the people we voted for (and promised us to overturn Roe v. Wade) will work day and night to make that happen. If not, aren’t they committing the same sin of omission that Father warns about if you even vote for a democrat? In my mind, it’s even worse.